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The cocoa grind in Europe dropped 3.9% in the first quarter compared to a year earlier, bringing it to its lowest level since 2009. Euromonitor analyst Francesco Redruello said obesity concerns and continued economic woes explain the dip.

David Luttenberger, packaging strategist for CEB Iconoculture, said companies can do more to convey the value of packaging to consumers. "Our industry needs to simplify and think like a consumer," he said. "Then and only then will consumers see the value packaging brings."

The Candy Factor and Olympic figure skater Tai Babilonia are partnering to create Tai Treats, a line of chocolate ice skates, butterflies and gold-dusted moons. A soft launch is planned for Mother's Day, with a wider rollout to follow.

Toray Plastics has developed a metalized white film with an "ultra barrier" on one side and a hermetic layer on the other side. The film can be used for packaging that promotes freshness of crispy snacks, confectionery, baked goods, frozen foods and refrigerated items.